Health and Hygiene

Preventing and Responding to COVID-19

Head Start and Early Head Start programs should take steps to prevent the introduction and spread of coronavirus among their staff, children, and families. CDC provides up-to-date information about the current outbreak. This section is regularly updated with the most relevant guidance and resources. All published resources are listed under Recent Updates.

Medical professionals and scientists are constantly learning more about coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Here's what we know so far:

There is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19

The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus

The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person:

Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet)

Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks

These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs

Some recent studies have suggested that COVID-19 may be spread by people who are not showing symptoms

The CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain, especially in areas with significant community-based transmission. This CDC video shows how to make an easy face covering using a t-shirt and rubber bands. There's no sewing involved. Cloth face coverings should not be placed on children younger than age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the cover without assistance.

Social distancing, effective hand-washing, and appropriate cleaning all help to reduce the spread of the disease. Coronaviruses are "enveloped viruses," meaning they are among the easiest types of viruses to kill before people are infected.

CDC provides up-to-date information about the current outbreak, including:

Hand-washing and Hygiene

Along with social distancing, hand-washing and good hygiene practices are the most important things you can do to stay healthy.

Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Keep all hand sanitizers out of children's reach. Always wash hands with soap and water if they are visibly dirty.